Research reveals what makes the perfect drink

Robyn Black is Inapub's drinks expert and editor. Follow her on Twitter @MrsRobynBlack

3rd October 2018

Herbal ice cubes, on-trend ingredients and 74 likes on Instagram all make up part of the perfect drink for today's younger drinkers.

The report was commissioned by Global Brands for its mixer brand Franklin & Sons and polled more than 1,000 UK adults.

It revealed that, while Gen Zers are very discerning when it comes to drinks, they are also four times as likely to spend up to £15 on a single cocktail on a night out than older drinkers.

The UK's perfect drink must consist of premium mixers and on-trend ingredients such as lavender, matcha and herbal ice cubes and, crucially, be accompanied with some top-quality service.

"We are seeing a definite shift in the way people drink – the previous norm of a few pints on a night out is clearly becoming a thing of the past, with the younger generations willing to spend more for their perfect serve - drinks with premium, on-trend ingredients, delivered through exceptional service," said Jen Draper, head of marketing at Franklin & Sons.

"This is now the benchmark for an ideal night out among the younger generations – irrespective of whether they are drinking alcohol or not."

Based on the findings, Franklin & Sons has created the Lemon & Lavender Spritz, "the ultimate Instagrammable cocktail for 2018," says Jen.

Lemon & Lavender Spritz

Ingredients:1 tablespoon of fresh lavender leaves and flowers280ml cold water50ml London dry gin10ml lemon juiceFranklin & Sons Natural Indian Tonic WaterSlice of lemon and a sprig of lavender to garnish

Glass: Copa

Method:

To make the frozen lavender ice cubes, chop the lavender leaves and flowers and place into a bowl of water, leaving to infuse for 20 minutes.

Next, pour 180ml of the mixture into an ice cube mould, making sure the lavender is evenly distributed, and pop in the freezer until set. Reserve the rest of the lavender infused water.

When your ice cubes are set, pour the rest of the ingredients into the glass, then fill to halfway with the lavender infused water. Fill the glass to the top with the lavender ice cubes and give a gentle stir to mix.

Garnish with a slice of lemon and a sprig of lavender to serve.

Robyn Black is Inapub's drinks expert and editor. Follow her on Twitter @MrsRobynBlack